'IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack' trailer reveals 7-days of horror
What's the story
Netflix India launched the highly-anticipated trailer for its upcoming series, IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack on Monday. The show is based on the real-life hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC 814 in 1999. The star-studded cast includes Naseeruddin Shah, Vijay Varma, Manoj Pahwa, Kumud Mishra, Arvind Swamy, Dia Mirza, Pankaj Kapur, and Patralekhaa. This mini-series marks the OTT debut of acclaimed director Anubhav Sinha and is set to premiere on August 29.
Trailer breakdown
Trailer reveals gripping narrative of Kandahar hijack
The trailer for IC 814 presents a riveting account of the infamous hijacking incident that shook India. It showcases the escalating demands of the hijackers and the Indian government's frantic negotiation efforts. The clip—clocking over two minutes and 40 seconds—also highlights intense diplomatic dialogues and internal governmental struggles, portrayed with striking realism. One key scene shows the aircraft running low on fuel, leading to a tense 'Mayday' situation for the captain, played by Varma.
Twitter Post
Do not miss this intense trailer here
7 days. 188 lives onboard. A nation’s worst nightmare.
— Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) August 19, 2024
Based on true events - IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack, a limited series, arrives on August29, only on Netflix!#IC814OnNetflixpic.twitter.com/QVNYne3BF5
Historical context
What exactly happened in December 1999?
The series is based on the real-life hijacking of IC 814 in December 1999. A group of militants took control of the aircraft, which was en route from Kathmandu to Delhi, and diverted it to Kandahar in Afghanistan, then ruled by the terrorist-extremist group Taliban. The aircraft had 170 passengers and 10 to 15 crew members aboard. The ensuing standoff lasted several days, marked by intense negotiations and complex diplomatic maneuvers.
Source material
Series adapted from 'Flight Into Fear,' explores multiple angles
IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack is adapted from the book Flight Into Fear by Captain Devi Sharan and Srinjoy Chowdhury. The series offers a multifaceted look at the hijacking incident, exploring the crisis from various perspectives. It provides insight into the tense negotiations in Delhi's War Room, high-stakes diplomacy in Taliban-controlled Kandahar, and the terrifying ordeal faced by passengers and crew aboard the hijacked aircraft.
Director's take
Sinha returns to series television after 27 years
Director Sinha returns to series television after a 27-year hiatus with IC 814. At the Next on Netflix event in Mumbai, Sinha stated his commitment to authenticity while working on the series. He expressed his excitement about the project, saying, "Netflix and Matchbox Shots made me an offer I couldn't refuse, to tell the story of IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack." The series is produced by Matchbox Shots and Benaras Mediaworks, with Sarita Patil and Sanjay Routray serving as producers.